Meditation

Read Psalm 23:1-6

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.—Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

Despite experiencing severe vision loss in childhood, I enjoyed hiking in the southern Rockies with my family. Some parts of the trail were scary because I couldn’t judge drop-off distances when climbing over rocky outcroppings or see the thorny bushes along the trail. So my uncle devised a plan to help me. He and I held opposite ends of his walking stick while he walked in front, giving verbal descriptions of what was coming. As we hiked, the dip and sway of the stick alerted me to the obstacles ahead.

Scripture promises us that God’s rod and staff will give us comfort and courage. A shepherd would use a rod and staff to protect and guide the sheep through any dangers along their path. Likewise, God walks with us, protecting us from unseen dangers and guiding us through whatever we encounter.

Just as I was able to relax on my hikes because of my uncle’s walking stick, we can confidently maneuver through life without fear, reassured that God leads the way and will never abandon us. As long as we hold on to God, we will find assurance of God’s presence, power, and protection.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the comfort of your constant presence. Guide us through any obstacles we encounter. Amen.

Thought for the day: No matter how rocky the path, I can find comfort by holding on to God.

Karen Wingate, Arizona